MANILA, Philippines - Is it a sports car? A coupe? Or a hatchback? One thing is certain: the Hyundai Veloster, one of the stars at the recently concluded Manila International Auto Show at the World Trade Center, is a different animal altogether. It’s sexy like a sports car, yet is functional like a hatchback. It’s a crossover vehicle that redefines the term “crossover.” Hyundai ingeniously engineered the Veloster to meld the concepts “velocity” and “roadster” in one quirky name.
Sporting a wide and low stance and Hyundai’s signature hexagonal grille at the front, the Veloster oozes raciness. The rear is equally arresting with a curvaceous style that’s absolutely head-turning.
The Veloster’s “eyes” pierce quite authoritatively with projector LED headlamps equipped with an Auto-Leveling feature. Emphasizing its dynamic look are unique rear lamps, stylish LED signal lamps, a rear spoiler, a centered twin-tip chrome exhaust, and a panoramic moonroof.
But perhaps the Veloster’s piece de resistance is its asymmetrical door configuration. There is only one door on the driver’s side and two on the other—with the rear door handle hidden in the rear pillar. Talk about functionality and style.
Inside the motorcycle-inspired cockpit, the Veloster boasts of generous interior space, push-button engine start/stop, a futuristic-looking dual-cylinder instrument cluster, and an Eco indicator to indicate efficient driving. Further emphasizing the Veloster’s elegant, high-tech interior is the tastefully fitted center fascia, with switches and controls that are within easy reach to access the car’s multimedia functions, plus a 7-inch multi-info LCD screen. Other fine touches include metallic details around the center console, door handles, air vents, and gear stick.
The Veloster boasts a premium sound system with a CD/MP3 player and Aux input as well as USB and Bluetooth/hands-free capability. Multimedia controls are found on the steering wheel while paddle shifters provide a sportier driving experience. A rear-view camera fitted at the rear hatch’s handle displays the view to the rear on the 7-inch LCD screen. The driver’s seat is fitted with height and recline adjustments, plus power seat with electric lumbar support adjustment. The rear seats have a 60/40 split-folding capacity.
The Veloster is powered by a cutting-edge 1.6-liter GDi (Gasoline Direct injection) DOHC engine delivering 140ps at 6,300 rpm, and maximum torque of 17 kg-m at 4,850 rpm. It’s mated to a 6-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) with H-Matic manumatic function. Steering is via electric power steering which reduces steering complexity and engine load.
The car rides on MacPherson struts with coil spring and stabilizer bar at the front, and a coupled torsion beam axle at the rear. Front and rear disc brakes give the Veloster superb stopping power. Active safety features include ABS, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Vehicle Management System (VMS), and Hill-start Assist Control (HAC).
The Veloster’s shell boasts a high-strength B-Pillar Impact Management System. The dash cross and side members, roof structure, and pillars are engineered with reinforced steel to protect the car’s occupants in a collision. There are also front SRS airbags, side and curtain airbags, as well as an impact-sensing door unlock system.